20 Indoor Places Where NYC Kids Play for Free

We're staring down another long Northeast winter, and entertaining the kids during this long, chilly season isn't easy or cheap. Throw in a cramped New York City apartment and a shortage of vitamin D and of course, everyone is eyeing the exit. Luckily, in NYC some of the best things in life are FREE (really).

If your kids are bouncing off the walls and your wallet is screaming for a break after all the holidays, we've got you covered. Check out our list of 20 FREE indoor destinations in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island for fun, games, or just a much-needed change of scenery.

2. Visit an amenity-filled public atrium. Our favorites include the David Rubenstein Atrium at Lincoln Center and the Winter Garden in the Financial District. If you've worked up an appetite, the Brookfield Place food court is not to be missed.

The Oculus is worth a visit for the eye candy alone. Photo by Billie Grace Ward via Flickr.

8. Gawk at the architectural wonder of The Oculus, the train station/shopping destination at the World Trade Center. More than 100 stores and eateries occupy the soaring, subterranean space.

9. See what's going on at one of the NYC Parks Department's many nature centers. Enjoy hands-on activities such as tours, crafts, and face time with animals. We're big fans of the Prospect Park Audubon Center free programs.

10. Get your game on at Nintendo NY, where kids can gawk at the giant Donkey Kong and test not-yet-released tech and video games.

11. Hit one of NYC's other interactive stores, filled with magic mirrors and giant castles (like the Disney Store Times Square), the amazing and engaging just-opened CAMP store, or independent favorite Kidding Around in Grand Central or Flatiron.

Kids have space to play or read at Posman Books. Photo courtesy of Posman Books

12. Watch the bakers in action at Chelsea Market, where a number of the city's best bakeries are rolling out dough, or read a story in the children's section of Posman Books after grabbing a bite at the market.

13. Register for a FREE youth program at your nearest Apple Store (there are several in Manhattan, as well as locations in Queens, Brooklyn, and Staten Island). Check out the latest gadgets and apps.

14. Don’t forget Central Park! There are a handful of FREE indoor destinations in the 840-acre green space, including the Chess & Checkers House.